Resilience Under Fire: What the Heathrow Outage Reveals
Resilience Under Fire: What the Heathrow Outage Reveals
Last week, we witnessed a major disturbance at Heathrow Airport due to a fire at North Hyde substation, which as a result caused widespread disruption, leading to the cancellation of nearly 1,400 flights and affecting over 200,000 passengers.
While power was restored and the airport returned to a full schedule by Sunday, the incident has triggered investigations by the government and Heathrow itself into the cause of the outage, the response, and the broader resilience of critical national infrastructure.
A key point emerging from the immediate aftermath is the claim by National Grid’s CEO that sufficient power was available from other substations for Heathrow to remain operational, raising questions about the airport’s preparedness and decision-making during the crisis, but it also raises questions within the industry on the importance of wider resilience across sectors, from Data Centres, to education. We spoke to Stephen Phimister, Director of Engineering at Wallace Whittle, to hear his perspective on the importance of resilience.
Despite Heathrow having multiple electricity connections and reported on-site, the fire at the North Hyde substation appears to have caused an outage of such significance the airport had to be closed. Thus highlighting a vulnerability where a single event can cripple a critical system, even with redundancy measures in place and it’s a reminder of how easily critical infrastructure can be disrupted.
“Grid Supply Points (GSPs) play a vital role in transforming high-voltage electricity from the transmission network, typically 275kV or 132kV, down to distribution levels around 66kV or 33kV. Each GSP is generally equipped with two transformers, operating in an N+N configuration, meaning both can handle the load if one fails. A failure of a single transformer creates what is known as an N-1 condition, which the system can typically withstand. However, in the case of Heathrow, the fire not only caused the failure of the first transformer but also appears to have compromised or shut down the second transformer, resulting in an N-2 condition, complete system failure. ” Stephen explained.
Although Heathrow had backup diesel generators to maintain safety-critical systems, these were not sufficient to power the entire airport. According to Heathrow’s CEO, Thomas Woldbye, switching to the other two substations “takes time.” However, the head of National Grid indicated that these substations were operational and could have supplied enough power to keep the airport running. This discrepancy raises concerns about the speed and effectiveness of Heathrow’s electrical reconfiguration procedures and its overall preparedness for handling such emergencies.
What Happens When the Lights Go Out?
This incident raises the issue of the importance of a stable electricity grid. With increasing reliance on the grid how could a major outage affect wider society, and how consequences of such an outage could ripple across multiple sectors. Here’s a generalised glimpse into how different parts of society could be affected:
Built with resilience in mind, data centres typically operate with at least N+1 generators and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). As demonstrated during the Heathrow incident, these facilities continued to function without interruption.
In an N-1 scenario, hospitals are likely to stay on grid power. However, in an N-2 event, they would switch to on-site generation to ensure all critical infrastructure remains operational, albeit with the possibility of some local disruptions. You can learn more about our approach to Electrical Categorisation in Healthcare here.
These facilities often pay a premium to be supplied by two separate GSPs, ensuring continuity of operations even during significant outages.
Most office buildings maintain only life safety systems (emergency lighting and evacuation support) during power failures. While some tenants may have their own generators to sustain limited operations, these rely on the availability of essential landlord services, such as water and sanitation, which could also be compromised during prolonged outages.
The majority of shops and offices lack backup power, leading to mass evacuations of premises and business closures.
The impact of such disruptions extends far beyond commercial and institutional sectors, affecting everyday life in numerous ways. While diesel and internal combustion engine (ICE) buses may continue operating, electric buses are left stranded once their batteries run out, as EV charging infrastructure is rarely supported by backup generators. Major railway stations may continue to function, albeit with reduced capacity, but smaller local stations, lacking on-site power support, are likely to shut down entirely.
What can we learn from this?
The National Grid substation fire serves as a stark reminder of how fragile critical infrastructure can be and the cascading effects of a major power failure. One key takeaway is that resilience is often only noticed when it fails. The impact of incidents on the electricity grid, or even within private premises, can impact business operations. This highlights the need to consider not just primary failures but also worst-case cascading failures in resilience planning.
The incident also emphasises that business continuity planning cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach. Underscoring the importance of regularly reviewing and testing backup systems to ensure they function properly in a crisis, and the urgent need to strengthen the protection of critical national infrastructure. This is especially important given that Heathrow is a privately operated business and not under direct government control.
“Accepting that Heathrow is a private operation, ultimately, the Heathrow outage is a wake-up call for governments, infrastructure providers, and businesses to consider the importance of resilience. As the complexity of modern systems grows, so does the need to build robust and adaptable infrastructure that can withstand challenges. Investing in resilience today is not just a precaution, it’s necessary for future safeguarding.”
It would be easy to suggest that resilience is added everywhere but that just isn’t practical or economical. Instead, consideration needs to be given to the impact of disruption on a number of factors including cost, operational impact and reputational damage.“ Stephen concluded.
At Wallace Whittle, we understand the importance of resilience in critical infrastructure. If you’re looking to strengthen the resilience of your projects or would like to discuss how our expertise can support your engineering needs, reach out to Stephen Phimister or contact us at [email protected]
Wallace Whittle Welcomes Sarah Chipchase as Director of Sustainability
Wallace Whittle Welcomes Sarah Chipchase as Director of Sustainability
Wallace Whittle is excited to welcome Sarah Chipchase to the team as our new Director of Sustainability, bringing over 20 years of expertise in driving environmental performance in the built environment.
Sarah, who will be based in Leeds, joins us to lead and develop our growing ESG & Sustainability Consultancy, working closely with Nick Hayes, our Head of ESG and Sustainability. With extensive experience in sustainability certifications such as BREEAM, WELL, and NABERS, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge to help our clients meet and exceed their sustainability goals.
“Sustainability matters in every part of modern building projects. Funders want to see environmental performance designed into plans, and end users expect the buildings they occupy to be as sustainable as possible. Wallace Whittle already has an impressive track record in this space, and I’m excited to build on that momentum as we help clients address their sustainability priorities.” Sarah shared.
Sarah’s career began in environmental auditing and management systems, which led her into the world of sustainable engineering and building certification. Having managed teams for most of her career, she has developed a strong track record in overseeing compliance frameworks and guiding clients through complex certification processes.
A key part of Sarah’s role will be to enhance Wallace Whittle’s sustainability advisory services and drive the adoption of PathWWay, our unique ESG management tool. PathWWay provides a customisable dashboard that allows project teams to set tailored ESG criteria and track progress, offering a single source of verifiable information that can be shared across stakeholders.
Nick Hayes, Head of ESG and Sustainability, shared
“Sustainability is still a very fast-moving part of the building sector and clients need the right experts onside to help them meet their targets and ambitions. Sarah is a recognised expert in how building projects can not only meet their sustainability compliance obligations, but how they can set new standards and innovate. She’s a hugely valuable addition to the team and brings a wealth of experience in this important area.”
As Wallace Whittle continues to expand our sustainability consultancy and strengthen our presence in England and beyond, Sarah’s leadership will play a key role in shaping the future of our work in sustainable engineering.
Connect with our team today to explore how we can help your business achieve its ESG & Sustainability goals, or to learn more about the innovative tools and services we offer visit our dedicated ESG & Sustainability Hub
Wallace Whittle Joins the CQIC Charter to Champion Quality
Wallace Whittle Joins the CQIC Charter to Champion Quality
Wallace Whittle has recently committed to the Construction Quality Improvement Collaborative (CQIC) Charter, which aligns with our vision of placing quality at the forefront of all decision-making to foster a sustainable quality culture.
This commitment supports the objectives outlined in the Scottish Construction Accord, aiming to transform the construction sector by enhancing quality, sustainability, and collaboration. The Scottish Construction Accord, launched in October 2022, represents a collaborative effort between Scotland’s public sector and the construction industry to transform the sector. This initiative aims to create a sustainable, profitable, diverse, and innovative construction industry that benefits all of Scotland.
The Charter outlined by the CQIC is founded on five key values:
Developing a sector that believes in continuous improvement, is willing to change and is ambitious for the industry.
Working together to share knowledge, lessons learned and best practice.
Taking pride in what we do, always doing out best, aiming for customer satisfaction and taking ownership and accountability when we get it wrong.
Building an industry that is recognised for its honesty and integrity.
Working across the industry to building professionalism, leadership, trust and self-respect.
At Wallace Whittle, Quality of Product and Quality of Service are fundamental to our operations. This dedication is exemplified through our WW:Academy which offers structured learning and development programs across four levels, tailored to different career stages, from junior staff to future leaders. The Academy is led by Paul Hargreaves, our Academy Manager, who collaborates closely with Raymond Kelly, our Quality & Standardisation Manager, both bringing extensive experience in the construction industry.
“Our commitment to quality is embedded in all of our processes and our culture. By aligning with the CQIC Charter, we’re reinforcing our dedication to delivering excellence in every project, ensuring that quality is not just an expectation but standard.”
Raymond Kelly, Quality & Standardisation Manager.
Our commitment to quality is further reinforced by embedding quality control and assurance processes within our internal project programs. We allocate dedicated time for quality checks on all project outputs and conduct continuous internal monitoring to ensure adherence to our high standards. This approach aligns with the CQIC Charter’s emphasis on doing it right the first time and creating conditions that embed a “right first time” culture.
By joining the CQIC Charter, we are reaffirming our dedication to a quality-centric culture, supporting the ambitions of the Scottish Construction Accord and contributing to the advancement of the construction industry in Scotland.
To learn more about how Wallace Whittle is driving quality through the CQIC Charter, feel free to reach out to Raymond Kelly or contact us at [email protected]
UK's Net Zero Carbon Building Standard
Building for the Future: Navigating the UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard
The UK Net Zero Carbon (UKNZC) Building Standard is an initiative that aims to tackle climate change. The pilot version of the Standard launched in September 2024. With the goal of delivering Net Zero Carbon Buildings by 2050, this voluntary standard sets ambitious new benchmarks for the built environment.
The Standard adopts both a phased approach and sector-specific targets, understanding that achieving net zero carbon emissions in buildings is a long-term goal and requires a phased approach, but also that different building sectors have unique characteristics and challenges in achieving net zero carbon emissions, meaning there are also sector-specific targets.
Consolidating existing standards and guidelines from organisations such as the BSI, UKGBC, LETI, RIBA, RICS, and CIBSE, The Standard establishes a unified process for achieving net-zero buildings by addressing carbon emissions across new developments and existing structures. The Standard covers retrofits, renovations, and replacements, and provides a framework for significantly reducing the carbon footprint of buildings across all sectors.
“Organisations and clients across all sectors are setting bold net-zero ambitions in line with their ESG commitments. However, the real challenge lies in delivering on these goals in a transparent and measurable way. Buildings play a critical role in this effort, both in understanding their environmental impact and achieving meaningful carbon reductions. The UKNZC Building Standard provides a clear, structured framework that leverages industry expertise to support this transition. Its introduction is a welcome step toward a more sustainable built environment.” Nick Hayes, Head of ESG & Sustainability, shared.
Overview of The UKNZC Building Standard
As buildings account for around 40% of the UK’s total energy consumption and 23% of greenhouse gas emissions, The UKNZC Building Standard applies to a broad range of building types, across residential, commercial, and public sectors, in attempt to reduce those emissions, and make the shift to a more sustainable environment.
Unlike many previous industry initiatives, the UKNZC Standard takes a comprehensive and holistic approach to assess a building’s carbon impact, considering both embodied and operational carbon emissions. This ensures that carbon reduction is not treated as a one-off effort, but rather as an ongoing commitment spanning the entire lifecycle of a building.
Key Components of the Standard
The core objectives of the UKNZC Building Standard focus on reducing both embodied and operational carbon emissions across the entire life-cycle of buildings. It emphasises genuine carbon reduction over offsetting, transparency through independent validation, and encourages innovation and collaboration to achieve a sustainable, net-zero carbon built environment. Limits and reporting metrics are proposed for various key components, which become progressively more stringent each year, which in turn incentivises early action to reduce energy consumption. The proposed targets are subject to third-party verification to confirm that the buildings meet the requirements. Each component targets a critical aspect of carbon reduction and sustainability, ensuring that every aspect of a building’s emissions is considered:
The Standard currently provides benchmarks for Upfront Embodied Carbon, referring to the emissions associated with the materials and construction processes up to the point of building completion. The limits vary based on the building type and reportable work (new build, retrofit, etc.). Future versions of the Standard are expected to include limits for Whole Life Embodied Carbon, which encompasses embodied emissions throughout a building’s life cycle, including demolition and disposal. There are also reporting requirements for the assessment of both lifecycle (whole life) and upfront embodied carbon.
The Standard sets limits for Annual Energy Use Intensity (EUI), which must be demonstrated using measured data from the building in use. Similarly to embodied carbon, these limits vary depending on the sector and building type. The Standard also requires annual operational carbon emissions and the energy intensity of specific energy end-uses to be reported for some building types. While there are no pass/fail limits for water usage, the Standard requires reporting of annual operational water use, water use intensity, and water emissions intensity.
The Standard sets a limit on the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of refrigerants used in buildings, capped at 677 kgCO2e/kg, equivalent to the GWP of the refrigerant R32. If the total GWP of refrigerants in a building exceeds 3,000 kgCO2e (equivalent to 4.4 kg of R-32), annual emissions from refrigerant leakage for products regulated by the Kyoto Protocol must be reported. These limits will help existing regulation by phasing down fluorinated gas usage and promote the push towards ‘natural’ refrigerants with lower GWPs, such as CO2 or propane.
The Standard requires building projects to track and report electricity usage patterns. Although there is no specific pass or fail targets yet, projects must report key data points, such as the date, time and electricity demand for periods representing the 99th, 50th, and 1st percentiles of energy use. Although the pilot version of the standard focuses on reporting, future versions may introduce specific targets, such as limits on peak winter electricity demand.
The Standard emphasises on measuring and reporting data, both for individual buildings and district systems, which are crucial for transparency and verification of net-zero claims. Centralised systems, which serve multiple buildings, can be more efficient and deliver lower adverse environmental impacts than individual systems. The Standard sets carbon intensity limits (kgCO₂e/kWh) for heating and cooling, with stricter benchmarks for new systems and requirements for reporting annual energy use and emissions.
The Standard emphasises the use of on-site renewable generation as a crucial strategy for reducing a building’s carbon footprint and achieving net-zero targets. This aligns with broader efforts to decarbonise energy supply and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The Standard includes specific targets for the annual amount of on-site renewable electricity generation that a building must achieve, which varies depending on the region and the type of building. The standard acknowledges that not all buildings may be able to meet the on-site generation targets in exceptional circumstances due to site constraints, and limited roof space for solar panels etc.
This is a central requirement of the standard. All buildings are able to operate free from the use of fossil fuels, meaning eliminating the use of fossil fuels such as grid-supplied gas, oil and coal for the purposes of space and water heating, and cooking. Eliminating fossil fuel use is essential to delivering net-zero buildings, but it must be complemented by other strategies, such as reducing overall energy demand and integrating renewable energy.
The UKNZC Building Standard does not outline specific methods to achieve its goals but instead sets clear benchmarks, which can foster innovation and encourage tailored solutions.
The Standard creates opportunities for us to work with clients, architects, and other stakeholders to deliver integrated, efficient, and forward-thinking designs. As the industry embraces this shift towards decarbonisation, our experience in MEP design, Sustainability, and ESG principles positions us to help our clients follow the pilot standard and drive meaningful change.
Strategies for Implementation
At Wallace Whittle, we believe that achieving net-zero carbon starts at the very beginning of a project. By integrating sustainability principles early into the design and planning stages, we ensure that every aspect of the building process is aligned with net-zero goals. This involves selecting sustainable materials, optimising building fabric for energy efficiency, sourcing materials locally, and incorporating renewable energy solutions from the outset.
We work closely with our clients to ensure these principles are part of the foundation, ensuring long-term sustainability from day one. Some of the strategies include:
By integrating sustainability principles into the design and planning stages, we ensure that every aspect of the building process is aligned with net-zero goals. Such as selecting sustainable materials, optimising building fabric, and incorporating renewable energy solutions from the outset. At Wallace Whittle, we work closely with our clients to ensure these principles are part of the foundation, ensuring long-term sustainability from the get-go.
Meeting net-zero carbon targets requires collaboration across all disciplines — architects, engineers, contractors, and developers. We foster this collaboration by sharing knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions and understand that achieving these ambitious goals requires a collective effort.
To meet the targets set by the UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard, investment in training and education is essential. We are committed to upskilling the next generation of engineers and professionals to design and calculate net-zero carbon buildings. We recognise that addressing the skills gap is critical, we therefore provide ongoing training to our team across the business with our WW:Academy. However, we also recognise that this is a wider industry challenge that requires policy support and investment at all levels, including funding for education and skills development.
Government incentives, grants, and streamlined planning processes are crucial to supporting the transition to net-zero carbon buildings. We actively advocate for such policy support and align our work with the evolving regulatory landscape. With the new Labour 2024 Budget placing emphasis on sustainable initiatives, we are aiming to leverage these resources.
We understand that to achieve net-zero emissions, we must think beyond efficiency and focus on sufficiency by designing buildings that meet the needs of the occupants without over-consuming resources. Many existing standards optimise “business as usual” approaches, which can still result in over-consumption and continued emissions. By rethinking our approach to consumption and resource use, we can design and deliver truly sustainable buildings that make meaningful contributions to carbon reduction goals.
As the UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard paves the way for a more sustainable environment, it sets ambitious yet achievable benchmarks for reducing carbon emissions across all sectors. While the path to net-zero demands collaboration, innovation, and long-term commitment, it also opens unprecedented opportunities for forward-thinking consultancies like Wallace Whittle to lead by example.
The UKNZC Building Standard is more than a framework; it is a call-to-action. Through commitment and collaboration, we can meet these ambitious goals and create a built environment that better benefits buildings, people and the planet!
Connect with our ESG or Sustainability team to discover how we can help your business meet its ESG goals and implement more sustainable solutions, get in touch today.
Felipe Tibabuzo Castro
Sustainability Associate
Cameron Duff
Sustainability Consultant
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Wallace Whittle Invited to Join Scale Up 2.0 Initiative with The Hunter Foundation
Wallace Whittle Invited to Join Scale Up 2.0 Initiative with The Hunter Foundation
Wallace Whittle has been invited to participate in the prestigious Scale Up 2.0 initiative, led by The Hunter Foundation.
This exclusive program is designed to support high-growth businesses headquartered in Scotland, providing them with the tools, mentorship, and strategic guidance to scale effectively to £100m+ in revenues.
Our selection for Scale Up 2.0 is a testament to Wallace Whittle’s strong position as an ambitious, scalable business with high profitability and a relentless growth mindset. We take great pride in this recognition, which reinforces our commitment to sustainable expansion and industry leadership.
A Year of Learning and Growth
Over the next year, our Managing Director, Allan McGill, will be actively participating in the program’s leadership retreats, gaining invaluable insights and strategies to propel our business forward. Additionally, members of our wider Board team will engage in select sessions, ensuring that the benefits of this initiative are embedded across our organisation.
“With us now in our fourth year of business since our MBO, and organically growing from £8m to £15m, this invite has come at just the right time as we look to scale up over the next few years. We’ve already started off well with the recent acquisition of Davie + McCulloch and more opportunities currently being considered.
Being part of this programme will allow us access to many talented individuals with experience of scaling up businesses across various sectors. One of the first sessions was given by Sir Tom Hunter himself – it was fascinating and inspiring to hear first-hand how he scaled up his business and the rules he worked to when doing it.” Allan shared.
Our Goals
This opportunity will also provide us with a unique platform to refine our vision, accelerate innovation, and strengthen our market position, which the full board are fully engaged with as we look to grow and scale the business.
We look forward to sharing our journey with you and working with the other programme participants, as we leverage this opportunity to drive Wallace Whittle to new heights.
For more information on Scale Up 2.0, visit Scale Up Scotland.
Wallace Whittle Are Good Business Charter Accredited
Wallace Whittle are Good Business Charter Accredited
WWe are officially accredited by the Good Business Charter! This accreditation is a testament to our commitment to responsible business practices and aligns with our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
At Wallace Whittle, we are committed to responsible business practices and integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into everything we do. That’s why we are proud to announce our accreditation with the Good Business Charter (GBC), a network of over 1,000 businesses that share a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. To earn this accreditation, we adhered to all 10 GBC components, which encompass a broad spectrum of responsibilities towards employees, suppliers, customers and the environment.
We recognised the value of the Good Business Charter’s 10 components, which set clear expectations for responsible business behavior. These principles align closely with our own ESG commitments, making it a natural fit for us. As an ESG service provider, we believe in practicing what we preach, and joining the GBC provides a recognised commitment to these values as we embark on our own PathWWay for Wallace Whittle.
Our Business, Our People, Our Impact
Being accredited by the GBC offers third-party validation of our responsible business practices, reinforcing that we are not only providing ESG services but also embedding these principles into our company culture. Several GBC components focus on employee well-being, including:
- Employee representation
- Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (E,D&I)
- The Real Living Wage
- Fairer hours and contracts
These components align with our commitment to developing and supporting our people as we continue to grow our investment in their well-being.
ESG & GBC
Our GBC membership supports our internal ESG Strategy by providing a recognisable accreditation that affirms our commitment to responsible business practices. Furthermore, the GBC’s 10 components align seamlessly with client needs within our PathWWay model, enhancing our ability to communicate and implement ESG strategies effectively.
PathWWay is our bespoke approach which enables organisations to highlight their ESG and Sustainability ambitions across a range of issues, including governance, energy and environmental, and incorporating broader aspects such as social value and ecological impact. The approach considers issues that are material to all stakeholders and can reflect, for example organisational targets, funding and planning requirements and social value commitments.
“We are delighted that Wallace Whittle is now accredited with the Good Business Charter. The GBC and its 10 components reflect our commitment to being a responsible business and will be integral to our ESG strategy. This recognition supports our business, our customers, and our people in creating a more ethical and sustainable future.”
Nick Hayes, Director of ESG & Sustainability – Wallace Whittle
Our ESG team recently attended the GBC 5th Anniversary event in London, where Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner delivered the keynote speech, reaffirming her commitment to the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation through the Employment Rights Bill – and its clear mission to boost growth and living standards across the UK.
With 97% of people valuing responsible business, GBC’s independent certification sets us apart as a leader in ethical capitalism.
We look forward to leveraging this accreditation to further strengthen our ESG efforts and continue making a meaningful impact for our people, our clients and the wider community.
If you’re looking to discuss all things ESG & Sustainability, or want to find out more about how we got accredited, reach out to Nick Hayes, Director of ESG & Sustainability at [email protected]
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Project Milestone Achieved with Phase 2 Handover at Golden Jubilee Hospital
Phase 2 Handover at The Golden Jubilee Hospital
The Golden Jubilee Hospital in Clydebank reached a significant milestone recently with the official handover of Phase 2, marking the completion of the Surgical Centre. This development builds on the success of Phase 1, which saw the completion of the state-of-the-art Eye Centre in 2020.
Phase 1 of the Golden Jubilee introduced a purpose-built Eye Centre equipped with six theatres and integrated outpatient and diagnostic facilities. This phase has already set a high standard of care, particularly for patients requiring cataract surgery, and served as a strong foundation for the continued expansion of the hospital.
The completion of Phase 2, further enhances the Golden Jubilee Hospital’s capabilities with a range of new facilities, designed to meet the growing demand for elective care in Scotland. The new Surgical Centre includes:
- Additional general surgery, orthopaedic and endoscopy facilities
- New surgical admissions and recovery unit
- New Central Sterile Processing Department
- New Day Case / Day Surgery admission unit
Wallace Whittle were involved throughout both stages, consulting on the MEP and sustainability design.
“We were delighted to be the MEP and Sustainability designers for the new Surgical Centre delivered as part of the National Treatment Centre programme at the Golden Jubilee University National Hospital.
Having already successfully delivered the Eye Centre on the same site, we were keen to further enhance the Golden Jubilee Foundations ability to provide additional day case treatment to patients in Scotland.
Working successfully with the design and client teams, we have delivered another successful healthcare project for Scotland.” Paul Cooper, Healthcare Lead Scotland & Northern Ireland
With the completion of Phase 2, the Golden Jubilee Hospital is well-equipped to meet the needs of patients in Scotland, offering modern facilities and enhanced care.
This milestone also marks a significant achievement in the ongoing development of the hospital.
To learn more about our healthcare initiatives and the ongoing projects visit our Healthcare Expertise page or reach out directly to our dedicated healthcare leads, Paul Cooper for Scotland and Northern Ireland, and Jon Blackhurst for England.
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Wallace Whittle Delivers M&E & Sustainability Design for Landmark Dyecoats Development in Leeds
Wallace Whittle Delivers M&E Engineering & Sustainability Design Services for the signature Dyecoats Development in Leeds, one of the first new high-rise projects to receive Building Safety Act Gateway 2 approval.
The Dyecoats development is a transformative new riverside neighbourhood near Leeds City Centre. We were engaged by Latimer by Clarion Housing Group to deliver Mechanical, Electrical & Sustainability engineering design from early concept stages through to construction, whilst ensuring the project complies with Leeds Local Planning Policies and Clarion’s commitment to sustainability.
The landmark project has successfully secured Building Safety Act Gateway 2 approval for three new buildings which form part of a wider regeneration project on Kirkstall Road in Leeds. This significant milestone as one of the first high-rise new builds to achieve this status is testament to the collaborative expertise and diligence of the entire team, to follow due process and demonstrate compliance.
Dyecoats is a 13-acre mixed-use development that will deliver:
- Over 1,800 new homes, including affordable, rental, and market-sale properties
- High Quality public realm and green spaces
- Flexible community and commercial spaces
- New bridge over the River Aire
- Towers and medium-rise blocks with Wellbeing and Safety as core values
Wallace Whittle has set an MEP and Energy strategy to achieve the anticipated Future Homes Standard as part of Clarion Housing Group’s Roadmap to Net Zero Carbon. This ensures the development meets rigorous sustainability and energy efficiency goals, making it one of the first projects to align with Clarion’s Net Zero strategy.
By adopting a fabric first approach to energy and accompanying this with net zero technologies, including Air Source Heat Pumps & PVs, we are delivering mechanical and electrical engineering solutions that prioritise:
- Energy-efficient all electric design in line with net-zero targets
- Sustainable building systems including Heat Pumps that reduce environmental impact
- Innovative engineering solutions for a resilient and future-proof community
- Overheating mitigation compliance
- Apartments designed for resident wellbeing, whilst adaptable to future expectations.
- Optimised Infrastructure and enlivened public realm
“We are proud of our association with Latimer by Clarion Housing Group and glad to have been on the journey with them to help deliver these much-sought after, new high-quality homes in what will become Leeds amazing new neighbourhood.
The MEP Engineering Services and Energy Performance throughout has been carefully integrated within the development to deliver optimised value for the client, residents and community stakeholders.”
With our expertise, we are ensuring that Dyecoats is a benchmark project for sustainable urban regeneration in Leeds.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your next project or to learn more about our ESG, Residential & Living Sector experience across the UK, email Craig – Craig Robertson – Director, England & Head of Residential
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Natural Refrigerant Heat Pumps: A Sustainable Solution
Natural Refrigerant Heat Pumps: A Sustainable Solution
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges associated with climate change, the need for sustainable, energy-efficient solutions has never been greater.
Modern heating technologies relying on F-gases like HFCs may help towards more energy efficient solutions, but they contribute significantly to global warming due to their high Global Warming Potential (GWP). This is why we are seeing a gradual shift to natural refrigerant heat pumps, a proven environmentally friendly alternative that combines high performance with a drastically reduced carbon footprint.
The Environmental Case for Natural Refrigerants
Natural refrigerants refer to those which are naturally occurring, such as propane, ammonia or carbon dioxide, and when it comes to combating climate change, the environmental cost of refrigerants cannot be underestimated. F-gases, such as HFCs, are widely used in traditional heating and cooling systems but have alarmingly high GWP, when those gases are released into the atmosphere, they trap significantly more heat than Carbon dioxide, which leads to the acceleration and worsening of global warming.
Natural refrigerants, in contrast, have a much lower GWP. This stark difference makes natural refrigerants an obvious choice for environmentally conscious projects, especially with the increasing regulations aiming to minimise high-GWP refrigerants.
Large F-gas systems are also known for leaking 5–10% of their refrigerant into the atmosphere annually. These leaks, categorised as ‘fugitive emissions’, significantly increase the carbon footprint of a building and must be reported under PAS2050 carbon reporting; by making the use of low-GWP refrigerants it’s also an effective way to reduce reported emissions.
By adopting natural refrigerants such as R744, R290, or R717, building systems can drastically reduce their environmental impact, aligning with carbon reduction targets and creating a more sustainable future.
Key Benefits of Natural Refrigerants
Natural refrigerant heat pumps have an array of benefits that make them an increasingly popular choice for both new builds and retrofit projects. Their superior operational performance, compatibility with existing systems, and alignment with future environmental regulations set them apart from traditional F-gas systems, whilst being significantly better for the environment. Major benefits of natural refrigerants include:
- High Efficiency at High Temperatures – Natural refrigerants like R744 (CO₂) and R290 (propane) can deliver LTHW at 65–80°C with excellent SCOPs. Unlike some common systems being specified today in UK building services which rely on HFC’s, heat pumps using natural refrigerants often don’t require additional in-line equipment to boost temperatures for DHW, cutting capex and operational costs!
- Cost-Effective Retrofits – For refurbishment projects, R290 systems often work with existing radiators and pipework, due to their ability to operate at a more traditional system ΔT, matching those of gas boiler led systems minimising upgrades and reducing installation costs. Reusing infrastructure also lowers the whole-life carbon impact of the project.
- Reduced System Costs – While some systems (for example R744) may have higher capex costs for the heat pumps themselves compared to their competitors, savings from smaller-diameter pipes and simpler installations make natural refrigerants more cost-effective over the system’s lifespan. This is due to the wider system ΔT that is required (around 40°C) which reduces the mass flowrate of the systems, thus reducing pipe sizes, valve sizes, simplifying installation and reducing the embodied carbon of the MEP package.
- Future Proofing and Compliance – Natural refrigerants meet tightening regulations like the UK’s 79% F-gas reduction by 2030. They ensure long-term compliance, reduce reliance on HFCs, and enhance sustainability credentials, supporting net-zero goals.
There is also a significant push from consumers and industries for more sustainable alternatives. Natural refrigerants align with the needs of conscious companies, stakeholders and consumers striving to reduce their carbon footprint.
For businesses, adopting a low-GWP refrigerant system can increase the marketability of assets. Buildings with sustainable heating systems are more attractive to potential renters and buyers who prioritise green initiatives, making them valuable in competitive markets. This trend also reflects growing consumer and corporate demand for solutions that align with modern ESG targets and climate-driven goals.
Looking Ahead
As industry continues to evolve, natural refrigerants are emerging as the leading alternative to F-gases. Manufacturers are increasingly developing next-generation heat pumps which utilise natural refrigerants. By using these systems now, businesses can stay ahead of production trends and position themselves as leaders in sustainable innovation.
Additionally, there are tightening regulations which are accelerating the shift away from F-gases. Following Brexit, the UK adopted and rebranded the EU’s F-Gas regulations to DEFRA F-Gas regulations which mandate a 79% reduction in F-Gases by 2030. The UK is also committed to reducing HFCs by 80% by 2047 under the international treaty, the Montreal Protocol. Additionally, the Green Heat Network Fund offers financial incentives to projects using low-GWP refrigerants. These measures collectively push for a lower-GWP future.
Although natural refrigerants are not a new discovery, their application in heat pumps has only gained momentum in recent years. Industries like retail and logistics have long relied on ammonia, propane, and CO₂ in large-scale refrigeration systems. Think of shops like ASDA and Tesco, where these refrigerants have been safely used for decades. The challenge, however, lies in applying this technology to domestic and commercial heat pumps.
Natural refrigerants present some manageable challenges, each of which can be addressed with proper safety measures and protocols. Propane (R290) is flammable but is used in minimal quantities, comparable to the amount of propane found in a typical barbecue. BS EN 378 helps us navigate these challenges with ease. CO₂ (R744) operates at high pressures, which can increase manufacturing costs; however, its efficiency offsets these costs by reducing the capex required for pipes, valves, and installation, as well as opex. Ammonia (R717) is toxic at high concentrations, but it is safe when stored and managed correctly with appropriate controls. These risks are well understood and can be effectively mitigated through proper management protocols, robust safety measures, and training.
With increasing regulatory pressure, evolving manufacturer offerings, and consumer demand for sustainable solutions, natural refrigerants represent a critical investment for the future. By adopting these technologies early, businesses can reduce environmental impact, stay compliant, and deliver systems that align with net-zero and ESG goals.
To connect with our MEP team to discover how we can help your business meet its ESG goals and implement more sustainable solutions get in touch.
Wallace Whittle Announces Acquisition of Davie + McCulloch
Wallace Whittle Announces Acquisition of Davie + McCulloch
WWe are excited to announce the acquisition of Davie + McCulloch. This move strengthens our expertise, expands our capabilities, and allows us to deliver even greater value to our clients across the UK.
We are pleased to announce the acquisition of Davie + McCulloch, a respected Glasgow-based building services consultancy and M&E engineering firm. This strategic acquisition represents a key milestone in our continued growth journey, positioning us to deliver even greater value to our clients.
Since our management buyout in 2021, we have achieved significant growth, boosting turnover from £8 million to over £14 million, while expanding to 8 offices across the UK and growing our team to 150 staff members. This acquisition reinforces our ambition to continue the expansion of our capabilities and further establish our position as a leader in engineering consultancy.
Founded in 1957, Davie + McCulloch brings a wealth of expertise in Higher Education, Secure Accommodation, and Defence sectors. Their established reputation and track record complement Wallace Whittle’s existing strengths, creating new opportunities to serve a broader client base.
“This acquisition is an important step forward in our growth strategy. Davie + McCulloch’s expertise and values align closely with our own, and we are confident this partnership will enhance our ability to deliver exceptional results.”
Allan McGill, Managing Director – Wallace Whittle
All staff from Davie + McCulloch will integrate into our Glasgow office, ensuring continuity and collaboration during the transition. While the Davie + McCulloch name will remain in the short term, both teams are already working closely to ensure a seamless integration and alignment of expertise.
This acquisition is expected to propel Wallace Whittle beyond the £15 million turnover milestone in 2025, increasing our team to 160. Plans are also currently underway to establish two new regional offices, with the potential for further acquisitions to support our long-term growth ambitions in the future.
“Our success since 2021’s MBO has been driven by organic growth,” McGill continued. “However, this acquisition accelerates our plans by adding a talented team and a well-established client network, positioning us to further strengthen our market presence.”
We remain steadfast in our commitment to sustainability and innovation. With our ESG & Sustainability team continuing to play a pivotal role in delivering environmentally conscious solutions across a range of sectors, from healthcare and commercial to residential and leisure.
Building on this foundation, we have recently expanded our ESG capabilities to further support our clients’ sustainability ambitions. Our bespoke digital dashboard, PathWWay, enables us to provide enhanced services, offering actionable insights into building performance, climate resilience, and net-zero strategies.
As we embark on this exciting new chapter, we are committed to continued growth and the seamless integration of Davie + McCulloch into Wallace Whittle. This acquisition is a significant step forward in our mission to deliver industry-leading services while upholding the highest standards of quality, standardisation, and sustainability.
We are grateful for the continued support of our clients, partners, and team members as we move forward on this journey. We look forward to welcoming in the new team, as well as the new opportunities ahead.
As Wallace Whittle continues to grow, we invite you to explore current career opportunities with us. If you’re interested in joining a dynamic and forward-thinking team, or if you have a project that could benefit from our expertise, we encourage you to get in touch.